You might be mindful of your diet, but have you ever considered how your beverage choices impact your brain? According to new research, a few common drinks may increase your chances of developing Alzheimer’s — and they may already be part of your daily routine.
Diet Soda May Disrupt Brain Function
Often marketed as a healthier choice, diet sodas contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame that may harm gut bacteria. Since gut health is closely tied to brain health, this disruption can impair cognitive performance over time.
Artificial Sweeteners Linked to Higher Dementia Risk
Research has shown that consuming artificially sweetened beverages may increase the risk of dementia by up to 2.9 times compared to those who avoid them.
Alcohol Is Worse Than You Think
Alcohol doesn’t just affect your liver — it can alter gut microbiota and reduce the quality of your sleep. Poor sleep impairs the brain’s natural ability to clean out toxic proteins linked to Alzheimer’s.
Also read: This Diet Could Cut Your Risk of Dementia — And You May Already Eat Like This
Lack of Sleep Accelerates Cognitive Decline
Studies have found that sleeping less than five hours a night doubles the risk of dementia. Deep, restful sleep is essential for preserving memory and cognitive function.
Sports Drinks Contain Hidden Risks
Often seen as healthy post-workout beverages, many sports drinks are loaded with sugar and lack fiber. This can lead to blood sugar spikes and insulin resistance — both linked to brain inflammation.
High Sugar Intake Fuels Chronic Inflammation
Constant exposure to high sugar levels may contribute to long-term inflammation, which has been closely associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Gut Health Is Tied to Brain Health
An imbalanced gut can affect everything from mood to memory. Poor gut bacteria diversity can impair communication between the brain and body, weakening mental clarity over time.
Also read: These Common Medications May Reverse Alzheimer’s Symptoms
The Brain Depends on Quality Sleep
While we sleep, the brain activates the glymphatic system — its built-in waste removal process. Skipping out on proper sleep can reduce the brain’s ability to flush out Alzheimer’s-related toxins.
It’s Not Just What You Eat — It’s What You Drink
Most people focus on food when thinking about health, but what we drink daily plays an equally important role in long-term brain function.
Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference
Eliminating or reducing these three drinks from your routine could be one of the simplest steps you can take to protect your brain as you age.
This article is based on information from Dagens.dk
Also read: New Research Links This Bedtime Habit to Better Behavior in Children
Also read: Smaller Plates, Slimmer Waist: Easy Ways to Control Your Portions